2010 Chateau Col Solare Red

Dark, concentrated and with a structured, tannic feel, the 2010 Col Solare (90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec) is a longer-term prospect and should be purchased by those with some patience. Smoked black fruits, scorched earth, licorice and graphite give way to a full-bodied, layered, masculine and tannic palate that needs 3-4 years of cellaring. It will have over two decades of ultimate longevity. A partnership with the Antinori family, these efforts are made by Marcus Notaro and focus on their Red Mountain estate vineyard. Tel. (509) 588-6806; www.colsolare.com

(90% cabernet sauvignon with 4% each merlot and cabernet franc and 2% malbec): Bright medium ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of cassis, violet, licorice and dark chocolate. Juicy, intense and penetrating, displaying insinuating flavors of blackberry, cassis, licorice and minerals lifted by a floral element. Youthfully tight rather than lush today, but with well-judged oakiness and excellent energy. The fruit blows by the firm tannins on the long back end. Plenty of acidity for grip. Built for a graceful evolution in bottle.